A MUSWELLBROOK man is calling on dog owners to take more responsibility with their pets after his child was bitten at a party last week.
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Craig Crockett, along with his wife Thanthika and 13-month-old son Jax, attended a Christmas function in town.
But, the festivities soon soured when Jax was attacked by a Kelpie-cross dingo.
The incident not only left the youngster traumatised, he’s also sporting a wounded hand, complete with teeth marks and stitches, a sore head and bruised cheek.
“The kids were playing down near the front gate,” Mr Crockett said.
“Then I heard Thanthika yell out, which immediately grabbed my attention.
“Apparently, the dog ran at Jax, jumped up and latched onto his hand, which punctured his skin.
“The animal also shook him like a rag doll.
“Jax’s head then hit the concrete.
“He was screaming and very distraught.
“We took him straight up to the [Muswellbrook District] hospital for treatment – and the staff couldn’t believe what had occurred.
“Even now, a week later, Jax is still distressed and waking up during the night.
“My wife and I have to settle him down so he’ll go back to sleep.”
While upset by the episode, what amazed Mr Crockett more was seeing the same dog roaming the streets during the week, despite reporting it to local police and council.
“I’m concerned it [an attack] might happen to other children,” he said.
“I contacted police, who put me on to the [Muswellbrook Shire] council ranger.
“I spoke to them on Tuesday and gave a statement.
“They told me they’d make a judgement call on whether it was a ‘dangerous dog’.
“However, I don’t believe anything has been done.
“Maybe, someone in government needs to take a good look at the laws, which seem to protect pets and not humans.
“What happens if a child is killed next time – I couldn’t live with that, knowing I did nothing?”